Why I Deserve Your Vote

By Jo A.S. Loss

qualifications

The board of education is responsible for many elements of quality education. The school board's job is to establish a vision, to create and maintain an effective and efficient school district, to ensure accountability and to provide community leadership as advocates for children, the school district and public schools.

Our students are successful because they have high quality staff in and out of the classroom. Our students learn because they are in an environment where they know that they are safe and in good facilities. All of our classroom buildings have been modernized and recently received earthquake updating.

These elements come together because we have exercised prudent financial stewardship for our district. Because of California's fiscal crisis, I have had to make tough decisions about our budget. Decisions that I know affect my neighbors, my friends and our community as a whole. I am confident that I have made the best possible strategic steps for the future of CVUSD.

There is a steep learning curve to becoming a contributing school board member. The school board is elected as laypeople who work collaboratively with the professionals who manage the day-to-day tactical decisions of the schools and those who offer classroom instruction and support. You must not be afraid to become a team player and work together to strengthen the district because an individual cannot effect change.

I have taken advantage of many opportunities to make informed and knowledgeable choices for Castro Valley's children. I have earned a Masters of Boardmanship and Masters of Governance from the California School Boards Association. I have served on many statewide education committees. Their subject matter ranges from service learning, Title 1, civic education to career and technical learning. I have served on the board of directors of EdSource, the Center for the Advancement of Reading, the Regional Occupational Center and six years on the State Superintendent of Schools P-16 Council.

I have been an active PTA leader for many years. I was the California State PTA President with 4000 PTAs and nearly one million members in 2009-2011. Prior to that I also served as the Vice President for Education and Leadership.

I will do the hard work you need to take our schools the next step higher in achievement for every student!